Conjunctivitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and When to Seek Help - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eyeball and the inner surface of the eyelids. It can be caused by various factors, including infections (viral or bacterial), allergies, or irritants such as chemicals or foreign bodies. Given your recent experience with washing dishes and then touching your eyes, it is plausible that you may have developed irritant conjunctivitis or even a secondary infection.


Symptoms of Conjunctivitis
The symptoms of conjunctivitis can vary depending on the cause but typically include:
- Redness in the white part of the eye or inner eyelid
- Increased tearing or discharge (which may be watery or thick and yellow/green)
- Itching or burning sensation in the eyes
- Swelling of the conjunctiva
- Sensitivity to light
- A gritty feeling in the eye, as if there is something in it
In your case, the discomfort and the sensation of having something in your eye could be attributed to the inflammation caused by conjunctivitis. The presence of redness and swelling can occur in both the upper and lower eyelids, depending on the severity and type of conjunctivitis.


Diagnosis
Diagnosis of conjunctivitis is typically made through a clinical examination. An eye care professional will assess your symptoms, examine your eyes, and may ask about your medical history, including any recent exposure to allergens or irritants. The examination you described, where the doctor asked you to look down while they pulled your eyelids apart, is a standard procedure to get a better view of the conjunctiva and the overall health of your eyes.


When to Seek Help
You should consider returning to the hospital or seeking further medical attention if:
- Your symptoms worsen or do not improve with initial treatment.

- You experience significant pain in your eye.

- You notice changes in your vision, such as blurriness or loss of vision.

- There is an increase in discharge, especially if it becomes thick and yellow or green.

- You develop a fever or other systemic symptoms.


Understanding Your Concerns
Regarding your specific questions:
1. Will conjunctivitis cause redness and swelling under the eyelids? Yes, conjunctivitis can cause redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, which can extend to the eyelids. This is particularly true in allergic conjunctivitis or when there is significant irritation.


2. Can conjunctivitis cause blurred vision? Typically, conjunctivitis does not cause blurred vision unless there is significant discharge or if the cornea is involved (as in keratitis). If your vision remains clear, that is a positive sign, but any changes should be reported to your healthcare provider.

3. Should you return to the hospital? If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. It’s important to ensure that there are no complications or other underlying issues.


Conclusion
In summary, conjunctivitis is a common condition that can be caused by various factors. While it often resolves on its own or with minimal treatment, monitoring your symptoms is crucial. If you have any doubts or if your condition does not improve, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice. Your eye health is important, and timely intervention can prevent complications.